Casting continues for Bond 25, newly Oscar-crowned Rami Malek back in contention
28-Feb-2019 • No Time To Die
After taking home the Best Actor gong at the Oscars this week for his performance as Freddy Mercury, Collider reports that Remi Malek is back in the running for the lead villain's role in Bond 25.
It is understood that Malek is sought after by producers but his schedule on USA Network's 'Mr. Robot' looked to make his appearance in Bond 25 impossible. Malek's agency has reportedly been able to renegotiate his schedule to accommodate the film and the new series.
Meanwhile, other parts are starting to be cast, with two female roles (over and above Lea Seydoux's Madeline Swann) to be filled. Variety reports that EON is seeking one female part comparable to Camille Montes (Olga Kurylenko) in 'Quantum of Solace' and another a new MI6 agent. A third, American male role is expected too. Billy Magnussen (who worked with director Cary Fukunaga on 'Maniac') is considered for the latter role that some speculate could be the return of Felix Leiter. Whether or not this is a recasting of Bond's pal at the CIA is yet to be confirmed, but given Magnussen's age (33, to Craig's 50) this seems less likely. The last time we saw Felix he was played back-to-back by Jeffrey Wright in 'Casino Royale' and 'Quantum'.
Reads opposite Craig for a shortlist of female roles is expected in the coming days, but no news has emerged about EON targeting known faces. Typically the 'Bond girl' roles go to unknowns, with castings like Helle Berry the exception to the rule.
Bond 25 is due to start production in April, with overseas locations being prepared now, for an April 8th 2020 US release with UK and Europe openings likely earlier that same month.
